The internet has revolutionised the way people shop around the world and online shopping is now a huge movement. Nigeria is not lagging behind in the trend either, as people in the country – visitors and locals – tend to prefer online shopping over conventional shopping these days.
Of course, there are many reasons to be sanguine about online retail in Nigeria. Jumia Travel, Africa’s No. 1 online hotel booking portal shares five reasons many Nigerians love online shopping and why anyone should shop online while visiting the country.
- Convenience
This is the number one reason to shop online in Nigeria. You literally can shop at your own time, in your own space and at any pace. You do not have to dress up and walk around the store, drive and pay for parking space, stand in line to pay then carry your cart out to offload in your car. There is no stress whatsoever. It is also convenient because you do not need to wait for the store to open or disrupt your schedule in any way.
2. Cheaper prices
Believe it or not, prices for most commodities are cheaper online. Thanks to the growing number of online shops in Nigeria, many offer deals, discounts, coupons and rebates in a bid to compete with other online stores and gain more customers.
3. Room for price comparison
While shopping online, it is easy to research on products and check out possible prices from different stores before making a purchase. Also, you have access to information and reviews shared by previous buyers with firsthand experience with a product or retailer.
4. Discreet purchases
There are certain things you want to buy, but you are a bit hesitant when you are in the stores as you do not want to be judged or criticised by others in the shop. Online shops however eliminate that challenge, enabling buyers to purchase such things as sexy lingerie, adult toys, etc without embarrassment.
5. Less expenses
Conventional in-store shopping usually ensures that you have easy access to all categories, even if you originally just want to pick one item. You are exposed to other sales items that may catch your eye and cause you to spend more than is planned, unlike online shopping where you just type the item you want to buy and it directs you to it, without many distractions. Again, with conventional store, you may feel the need to eat at the deli or grab a drink which will incur extra costs.
Contributed by Nkem Ndem, PR Associate, Jumia Travel
Skype: live:nkemndemv, Twitter: @ndemv, Instagram: @kem_dem
